Discuss ‘diffusion’ as a mechanism of culture-change.

1. Culture : Contact and diffusion of social values, ideas and technology take place from one society to another. Diffusion is a vital mechanism of social change. Borrowing of cultural traits from an advanced society by a backward society is a normal process. This brings social change.

2. Standard : The backward societies change very quickly and become modern by borrowing advanced technologies from technologically advanced societies.

3. Diffusion of Culture : Cultural traits also takes place through face-to-face contacts and interactions between the members of two or more cultures.

4. Role of Educational Institutions :

Sometimes, diffusion takes place through educational institutions. The mass media (Press, TV, Radio, Cinema) diffuse information from one culture to the other and play an important role in bringing social and cultural change.

5. Change in Material Life : Diffusion of culture-traits takes place rapidly within a short period of time in the sphere of material life of the people. But non-material traits ideology, religion, beliefs and values change very slowly.